Sheena Bora murder: Indrani’s driver appeals for bail, says family is struggling financially

Accused-turned-approver in the Sheena Bora murder case, Shyamwar Rai, prayed for bail on Friday citing poor economic condition of his family.

Rai, who was the driver of Indrani Mukerjea – one of the prime accused in the case – had written to the court on May 15 for production. He pleaded to the court that he is very poor and his family is going through a lot as there is no one to support them financially. His wife and two children were also present in the court. The court told him that the prosecuting agency apprehends threat to his life from the other accused. Rai pleaded saying, “The threat will remain till I am alive. I need to go out to support my family. My father-in-law who looked after my family has also died.” The court has asked the prosecution to reply on his plea.

Kavita Patil, prosecutor for CBI informed the court that Rai’s plea has been referred to higher authorities in CBI and they are awaiting a reply. “Besides we need to see the legal provisions if an approver can be released on bail during pendency of the trial,” Patil submitted. She said CBI will try to file a reply by next week.

As per the criminal procedure code, an approver “shall be released only after the completion of the trial”. Earlier in April, Rai had written a letter to the court seeking bail, as his evidence has been recorded.